7 pumpkin-flavored foods that are actually good for you
'Tis the season for all things pumpkin but don’t let the known health attributes of this seasonal squash fool you into thinking all pumpkin flavored foods are good for you.
'Tis the season for all things pumpkin but don't let the known health attributes of this seasonal squash fool you into thinking all pumpkin flavored foods are good for you. My research assistant Danielle Sanislow and I scoured the shelves of our local grocery store to find the healthiest options to curb your pumpkin cravings this fall!
Nature's Path Pumpkin Spice Waffles
For a great way to start a fall day, try these perfectly spiced, organic, non-gmo pumpkin waffles. Low in sugar and gluten-free, think of these waffles as a much healthier version of a pumpkin spice muffin. Skip the maple syrup and top them with a dollop of yogurt and some roasted apples or pears for added seasonal flare.
KIND Maple Pumpkin Seeds with Sea Salt
What happens when you pair festive pumpkin seeds with maple, quinoa, millet, amaranth and other whole grains? You get a delicious, low-sugar granola bar that is great for on-the-go snacking and school lunches. Bonus: It's gluten-free as well!
Siggi's Pumpkin & Spice Yogurt
Packed with more protein than sugar, this flavored yogurt easily tops the good-for-you food list. We love their seasonal offerings like Pumpkin & Spice (and Spiced Pear!) — plus, you can find all of the ingredients in a Siggi's yogurt right in your own kitchen.
Food Should Taste Good Pumpkin Chips
Combine a traditional tortilla chip with fall flavors which include pumpkin, cinnamon, allspice and nutmeg and you have yourself a tasty fall snack. These chips are fried, so moderation and mindfulness of the serving size is important, but the simple and clean ingredients make this pick the healthiest tortilla chip option around!
Nature's All Organic Freeze Dried Pumpkins
This freeze-dried, crunchy snack is raw, vegan, gluten-free and has absolutely zero sugar added. The organic pumpkins are very nutritious, simple way to enjoy the fall squash favorite, plus a great way to get your kids to eat their veggies!
Doctor Kracker's Pumpkin Seed Cheddar
It's hard to find a healthy cracker, but this one fits the bill any time of year. With no added sugar and 4 grams of fiber per serving, this cracker is loaded with healthy fats from not only pumpkin seeds but flaxseeds and sunflower seeds, as well. The mild cheddar flavor pairs well with the earthy flavors of the seeds.
Farmer's Market's Organic Pumpkin Puree
A staple in many homes this time of year, Farmer's Market Pumpkin is as good as it gets. The ingredients couldn't be any simpler — just organic pumpkin in a BPA-free can. Skip the pre-seasoned varieties, as they are often loaded with added sugar, and instead add some flavor with your own favorite spices.
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